In-depth analysis of the global handset component market to help devise winning strategies for smartphone design. Includes up-to-date market share information, device-level forecasts, semiconductor market shipment data, and close tracking of the broader smartphone ecosystem, capturing market drivers on both a global as well as OEM level enabling rapid analysis and implementation of strategic and tactical initiatives.

Alcatel offers two strongly designed new smartphones, the Idol 4 and Idol 4S, as it re-positions its brand for a more premium segment. IHS sees Alcatel’s decision to shift to a stronger brand, alongside more premium models, as a bold but necessary move which Alcatel needs to lift its brand above the multitude of value and mid-tier smartphone makers. Currently, TCL-Alcatel is ranked #5 in terms of global mobile handset unit shipments.

Mobile operator Orange has launched a range of new smartphone aimed at lowering the barrier to entry to 4G. The devices range in price between €79 and €239 and will be on sale across all of Orange's European footprint.

Amazon is holding a launch event on June 18 for a new hardware product.
Previously, Amazon launched the Kindle eReader (2007); Kindle Fire tablet running Android (2011); and the Fire TV streaming video box (2014). An own-brand smartphone would be a natural next step which Amazon will have at least considered. But Amazon must ask itself: Is launching a smartphone really the best strategy? We set out what Amazon must do to succeed with an own-brand smartphone in this very challenging market.

Samsung launched the Samsung Z smartphone in Russia. While Samsung's first Tizen smartphone is small scale, the move demonstrates how Samsung is seeking to reduce its dependency on Android. There are numerous challenges for Samsung, not least creating an app ecosystem which makes Tizen a compelling smartphone.